Unfortunately, setting a budget is one thing – sticking to it is another. Most couples spend more on the wedding than originally planned. It is so easy to start with the best of intentions—it is even easier to get carried away by all glam whether it be the "perfect" dress, centerpieces or the must have invitations.

Here are FIVE steps to help along the journey:

Step 1: Create a System

Set up a wedding fund separate from your personal accounts, so you can easily determine what’s being spent on the wedding. Also look into the possibility of opening a simple,free checking account. Keep an up to date spreadsheet of your expenses.

Step 2: Prepare to Go Over

Set aside at least five percent of your budget for a just-in-case fund.  If you absolutely cannot exceed $25,000, aim to spend $23,000.  Inevitably there will be last minute costs, by budgeting less your reserve funds will save you from debt.  Some common overlooked costs you may not have considered when setting your initial budget:
·   Postage for invitations and stamps for RSVPs; the cost depends not only on the weight of the invitation, but also the odd shape or “oversize” adds addtional surcharges to the cost and once again, the quantity being sent 
·   Trial runs - make-up and hairstyling – about $50-$100 each
·   Accessories/gifts –whether it is personal jewelry for the ladies or other gifts to the wedding party
·   Tips for your vendors – 15-25% is customary for certain services

Step 3: Cut Back

The biggest way to reduce expenses in every category is invite 150 guests vs. 200;serve three courses instead of five (save on catering); serve beer, wine, soft drinks or specific signature drink instead of an open bar with liquor; and think about drawing the line with four bridesmaids and groomsmen instead of 10 on each side - which amounts to big savings on on bouquets and gifts.

Step 4: The Best is Going to Cost

If the gorgeous designer dress, premium liquor, surf and turf sounds like a good thing at the time, all these “best of the best” is going to cost. Prioritize categories based on your vison before making any selections and realize that to have the best in one category you may need to sacrifice in another category. 

Step 5: Tighten Your Personal Budget

In the event  you and your groom are responsible for paying a portion of the overall expenses with your parents, here’s a simple way to tighten you personal budget to be able to afford some “extravagance” into your wedding budget. The goal is try to save 20% of your income for your wedding expenses.   All you need to do is make some simple lifestyle changes like brewing your own coffee, eat out less by cooking meals at home – even have an all day cooking affair, then label and freeze the food for quick meals after work,  renting a DVD instead of expensive trips to the theatre, plus on “movie nights”  invite your friends over instead of going “clubbing” which adds up to enormous savings.  The best part of this new discipline is after you get married it makes it easier to save for other big ticket items like a new home, furniture, or vacations.